U.S. airstrikes in Yemen led to the deaths of several Houthi leaders, with officials announcing a decisive approach to combat Houthi threats to maritime security. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz emphasized a contrast with previous administration’s tactics, highlighting Iran’s role in supporting the Houthis. The military campaign is set to continue until the Houthis halt their aggression, amid warnings from President Trump to both the group and Iran.
U.S. national security officials announced the elimination of several senior leaders of the Houthi terrorist organization during recent airstrikes in Yemen. While the exact number of casualties remains unspecified, there are claims from Arab media stating that six high-ranking officials were killed. U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz described these strikes as unprecedented in scale, contrasting them with the limited operations under the previous administration.
Waltz further characterized the recent airstrikes as a decisive response aimed at disrupting the Houthis’ activities, especially those affecting international maritime routes. He stressed the need for Iran to cease its support for the Houthis, stating, “All options are on the table” regarding potential action against Iranian nuclear facilities, as negotiations for a new nuclear deal stall.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that U.S. operations would persist until the risk posed by the Houthis to shipping lanes is addressed. He affirmed that the military strikes are not directed at altering the internal conflict in Yemen, saying, “We don’t care about Yemen’s civil war.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the administration is not considering ground operations in Yemen at this time, underscoring the air campaign’s focus on neutralizing Houthi capabilities to threaten global shipping.
The air campaign commenced on Saturday night, targeting several sites in Houthi-controlled areas, resulting in a reported high number of casualties, including civilians. This offensive aims to dismantle Houthi missile capabilities and leadership, with the intent of sending a strong message to Iran regarding their role in supporting the Houthis.
Despite the strikes, the Houthis have expressed their determination to continue their campaign in support of Palestine, indicating plans to retaliate against perceived threats to their operations. Reports also emerged that Houthi leaders are taking precautions by relocating and evacuating sensitive locations to avoid further airstrikes.
In response to the offensive, President Donald Trump publicly announced the military actions and issued stern warnings to both the Houthis and Iran, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to protecting its interests and international maritime routes. Trump criticized past responses to Houthi threats and proclaimed that actions would be taken until the attacks ceased, reaffirming the narrative of holding Iran responsible for their support of the Houthis.
The recent U.S. airstrikes in Yemen have resulted in the killing of several senior Houthi leaders, marking a significant shift in military strategy under the current administration. The U.S. has made it clear that the operations will persist until the threat posed by the Houthis to international shipping is neutralized, while also sending a pointed message to Iran about its support for the group. The Houthis have vowed to continue their campaign, indicating further escalation may follow as both sides brace for heightened conflict.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
